Induction-powered camera

ABSTRACT

An induction-powered camera capable of being installed external to a building without any building alterations is described. The induction-powered camera may include a continuous power source. The induction-powered camera may transmit one or more images to a control panel associated with security and/or automation systems. The induction-powered camera may be movable and/or removable with undue burden. An apparatus for a security and/or automation system is described. The apparatus may include a first half of the apparatus and an electricity transmission unit positioned within the first half. An electricity receiving unit may be positioned a predetermined distance away from the electricity transmission unit. The electricity receiving unit proximate a second half of the apparatus and a camera may be proximate the second half of the apparatus, the camera powered by the electricity receiving unit.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure, for example, relates to security and/orautomation systems, and more particularly to capturing one or moreoutdoor images without significant alterations to a building.

Security and automation systems are widely deployed to provide varioustypes of communication and functional features such as monitoring,communication, notification, and/or others. These systems may be capableof supporting communication with a user through a communicationconnection or a system management action.

Cameras for security and/or automation systems may require a dedicatedpower source as well as means for transferring data to a control panelof the security and/or automation system. Wiring external devices to abuilding may present challenges. This may require permanent alterationsto a building such as running electricity wires and/or making one ormore alterations to an exterior of a building. Holes may need to bedrilled through one or more exteriors to a building, wires may need tobe run, and the like. Additionally, drilling holes through an exteriormay open the potential for one or more pests to enter the building, maybe difficult to seal out weather, and the like. The cost to permanentlyinstall an external monitoring system may be high due to the complexityof the system. Additionally, a user may not wish to make the permanentalterations to a building to accommodate the external monitoring system.This may prevent the install for external security detection and/orprecautions despite a growing need.

SUMMARY

The disclosure may relate to an induction-powered camera capable ofbeing installed external to a building without any building alterations.The induction-powered camera may have a continuous power source withoutthe concern of one or more limited power source draining. Theinduction-powered camera may transmit one or more images to a controlpanel associated with security and/or automation systems. Theinduction-powered camera may be movable and/or removable with undueburden.

In one embodiment, an apparatus for a security and/or automation systemis described. The apparatus may include a first half of the apparatusand an electricity transmission unit positioned within the first half.An electricity receiving unit may be positioned a predetermined distanceaway from the electricity transmission unit. The electricity receivingunit proximate a second half of the apparatus and a camera may beproximate the second half of the apparatus, the camera powered by theelectricity receiving unit.

A first magnet may be proximate the first half and a second magnetproximate the second half. The first and second magnet may be positionedto align the electricity transmission unit and the electricity receivingunit. A light source may be proximate the second half of the apparatus,wherein the light source may illuminate when the electricity receivingunit is activated. Activating the electricity receiving unit maycomprise transferring power from the electricity transmission unit tothe electricity receiving unit. An antenna proximate the second half.

An audio recording device may be proximate the second half, the audiorecording device may be powered by the electricity receiving unit. Theapparatus may further include a coil of wire, a chip proximate the coilof wire, connecting to the coil of wire via a connecting wire, and acontinuous power supply proximate the coil of wire. The apparatus mayfurther include a second coil of wire, a second chip proximate the coilof wire, connecting to the coil of wire via a second connecting wire,and the camera proximate the second chip, positioned to receive a sourceof power from the second chip and second coil of wire.

An optical data transmission unit may be proximate the second half.Additionally, an optical data receiving unit may be proximate the firsthalf. The two units may be positioned to transmit data there between. Abattery proximate the second half, the battery positioned to receiveelectricity from the electricity receiving unit. A speaker may beproximate the second half. The first half and second half may transferdata via a near field communication protocol.

In further embodiments, a method for security and/or automation systemsis described. The method may include generating a command to activate amobile camera unit based at least in part on one or more securityparameters, wherein the mobile camera unit is powered by inductionpower. The method may transmit the command to the mobile camera unit;receiving data from the mobile camera unit and analyze the data from themobile camera unit. The method may generate the command based on one ormore emergency alerts. The method may transmit the received data to oneor more emergency personnel. The method may analyze the data based onone or more emergency alerts, wherein analyzing the data comprisesanalyzing one or more images to identify motion proximate the mobilecamera unit.

In a further embodiment, an apparatus for security and/or automationsystems is described. The apparatus may include a first half of theapparatus and an electricity transmission unit positioned within thefirst half. An electricity receiving unit may be positioned apredetermined distance away from the electricity transmission unit. Theelectricity receiving unit proximate a second half of the apparatus anda camera may be proximate the second half of the apparatus, the camerapowered by the electricity receiving unit. The apparatus may furtherinclude a processor, memory in electronic communication with theprocessor, and instructions stored in the memory. The instructions maybe executable by the processor to activate the camera based at least inpart on one or more commands.

The instructions may be further executable to stream image data to thecontrol panel in response to one or more commands. The instructions maybe further executable to connect to a control panel associated with anautomation system. The instructions may be further executable to rotatea viewing point of the camera.

The foregoing has outlined rather broadly the features and technicaladvantages of examples according to this disclosure so that thefollowing detailed description may be better understood. Additionalfeatures and advantages will be described below. The conception andspecific examples disclosed may be readily utilized as a basis formodifying or designing other structures for carrying out the samepurposes of the present disclosure. Such equivalent constructions do notdepart from the scope of the appended claims. Characteristics of theconcepts disclosed herein—including their organization and method ofoperation—together with associated advantages will be better understoodfrom the following description when considered in connection with theaccompanying figures. Each of the figures is provided for the purpose ofillustration and description only, and not as a definition of the limitsof the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A further understanding of the nature and advantages of the presentdisclosure may be realized by reference to the following drawings. Inthe appended figures, similar components or features may have the samereference label. Further, various components of the same type may bedistinguished by following a first reference label with a dash and asecond label that may distinguish among the similar components. However,features discussed for various components—including those having a dashand a second reference label—apply to other similar components. If onlythe first reference label is used in the specification, the descriptionis applicable to any one of the similar components having the same firstreference label irrespective of the second reference label.

FIG. 1 shows a block diagram relating to a security and/or an automationsystem, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure;

FIG. 2 shows a block diagram of a device relating to a security and/oran automation system, in accordance with various aspects of thisdisclosure;

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram of a device relating to a security and/oran automation system, in accordance with various aspects of thisdisclosure;

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram relating to a security and/or an automationsystem, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure;

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram relating to a security and/or an automationsystem, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure;

FIG. 6 shows a block diagram relating to a security and/or an automationsystem, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure;

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram relating to a security and/or an automationsystem, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure;

FIG. 8 shows a block diagram relating to a security and/or an automationsystem, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure;

FIG. 9 shows a block diagram relating to a security and/or an automationsystem, in accordance with various aspects of this disclosure;

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a method relating toa security and/or an automation system, in accordance with variousaspects of this disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In some embodiments, security and/or automation systems may have one ormore externally-mounted cameras. The cameras may capture video or stillimages of a building's surroundings. The cameras may be general securitycameras sending information to a central hub for review, or may provideinformation should an unlawful or undesirable event occur. Hard wiringthe cameras may be costly and may result in permanent fixtures outsideof a building. The permanent fixtures may not be mobile. Additionally,in some instances, an external camera may not be necessary for permanentapplication. A user may be experiencing some sort of nuisance or otherproblem they wish to monitor for a short duration of time. Thepermanence and expense of mounting a wired external camera may not be inline with the need.

Instead, a mobile external camera unit may be installed without anymodifications to a building. The camera may be connected to a continuouspower supply negating the need for batteries as a primary power source.The external camera unit may comprise an indoor unit and an outdoorunit. The indoor unit and the outdoor unit may be proximate each otherand may exchange power through one or more wireless mediums. Theexternal camera unit may capture one or more images. The images maycomprise still images, moving images, 3-dimensional rendering, or anyrepresentation of physical things. The external camera may additionallycapture one or more audio files.

The following description provides examples and is not limiting of thescope, applicability, and/or examples set forth in the claims. Changesmay be made in the function and/or arrangement of elements discussedwithout departing from the scope of the disclosure. Various examples mayomit, substitute, and/or add various procedures and/or components asappropriate. For instance, the methods described may be performed in anorder different from that described, and/or various steps may be added,omitted, and/or combined. Also, features described with respect to someexamples may be combined in other examples.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of a communications system 100 inaccordance with various aspects of the disclosure. The communicationssystem 100 may include control panels 105, devices 115, a network 130,sensors 150, and/or external cameras 155. The network 130 may provideuser authentication, encryption, access authorization, tracking,Internet Protocol (IP) connectivity, and other access, calculation,modification, and/or functions. The control panels 105 may interfacewith the network 130 through wired and/or wireless communication links132 to communication with one or more remote servers 145. The controlpanels 105 may perform communication configuration, adjustment, and/orscheduling for communication with the devices 115, or may operate underthe control of a controller. In various examples, the control panels 105may communicate—either directly or indirectly (e.g., through network130)—with each other over wired and/or wireless communication links 134.Control panels 105 may communicate with a back end server (such as theremote servers 145)—directly and/or indirectly—using one or morecommunication links.

The control panels 105 may wirelessly communicate with the devices 115via one or more antennas. Each of the control panels 105 may providecommunication coverage for a respective geographic coverage area 110. Insome examples, control panels 105 may be referred to as a controldevice, a base transceiver station, a radio base station, an accesspoint, a radio transceiver, or some other suitable terminology. Thegeographic coverage area 110 for a control panel 105 may be divided intosectors making up only a portion of the coverage area. Thecommunications system 100 may include control panels 105 of differenttypes. There may be overlapping geographic coverage areas 110 for one ormore different parameters, including different technologies, features,subscriber preferences, hardware, software, technology, and/or methods.For example, each control panel 105 may be related to one or morediscrete structures (e.g., a home, a business) and each of the one morediscrete structures may be related to one or more discrete areas. Inother examples, multiple control panels 105 may be related to the sameone or more discrete structures (e.g., multiple control panels relatingto a home and/or a business complex).

The devices 115 may be dispersed throughout the communications system100 and each device 115 may be stationary and/or mobile. A device 115may include a cellular phone, a personal digital assistant (PDA), awireless modem, a wireless communication device, a handheld device, atablet computer, a laptop computer, a cordless phone, a wireless localloop (WLL) station, a display device (e.g., TVs, computer monitors,etc.), a printer, a camera, and/or the like. A device 115 may alsoinclude or be referred to by those skilled in the art as a user device,a smartphone, a BLUETOOTH® device, a Wi-Fi device, a mobile station, asubscriber station, a mobile unit, a subscriber unit, a wireless unit, aremote unit, a mobile device, a wireless device, a wirelesscommunications device, a remote device, an access terminal, a mobileterminal, a wireless terminal, a remote terminal, a handset, a useragent, a mobile client, a client, and/or some other suitableterminology.

The control panels 105 may wirelessly communicate with the sensors 150via one or more antennas. The sensors 150 may be dispersed throughoutthe communications system 100 and each sensor 150 may be stationaryand/or mobile. A sensor 150 may include and/or be one or more sensorsthat sense: proximity, motion, temperatures, humidity, sound level,smoke, structural features (e.g., glass breaking, window position, doorposition), time, light geo-location data of a user and/or a device,distance, biometrics, weight, speed, height, size, preferences, light,darkness, weather, time, system performance, and/or other inputs thatrelate to a security and/or an automation system.

The external cameras 155 may be external to a building but may receivepower from a continuous power supply located internally in the building.The external camera 155 may be a mobile unit and may not requirerewiring or alterations to a building to install and/or reposition. Theexternal cameras 155 may receive power from an induction source, whichmay also be used to transmit one or more pieces of information. A device115, a sensor 150, and/or an external camera 155 may be able tocommunicate through one or more wired and/or wireless connections withvarious components such as control panels, base stations, and/or networkequipment (e.g., servers, wireless communication points, etc.) and/orthe like.

The communication links 125 shown in communications system 100 mayinclude uplink (UL) transmissions from a device 115 and/or a sensor 150to a control panel 105, and/or downlink (DL) transmissions, from acontrol panel 105 to a device 115 and/or sensor 150. The downlinktransmissions may also be called forward link transmissions while theuplink transmissions may also be called reverse link transmissions. Eachcommunication link 125 may include one or more carriers, where eachcarrier may be a signal made up of multiple sub-carriers (e.g., waveformsignals of different frequencies) modulated according to the variousradio technologies. Each modulated signal may be sent on a differentsub-carrier and may carry control information (e.g., reference signals,control channels, etc.), overhead information, user data, etc. Thecommunication links 125 may transmit bidirectional communications and/orunidirectional communications. Communication links 125 may include oneor more connections, including but not limited to, 345 MHz, Wi-Fi,BLUETOOTH®, BLUETOOTH® Low Energy, cellular, Z-WAVE®, 802.11,peer-to-peer, LAN, WLAN, Ethernet, fire wire, fiber optic, and/or otherconnection types related to security and/or automation systems.

In some embodiments, control panels 105, devices 115, sensors 150,and/or external cameras 155 may include one or more antennas foremploying antenna diversity schemes to improve communication quality andreliability between control panels 105, devices 115, sensors 150, and/orexternal cameras 155. Additionally or alternatively, control panels 105,devices 115, sensors 150, and/or external cameras 155 may employmultiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) techniques that may takeadvantage of multi-path, mesh-type environments to transmit multiplespatial layers carrying the same or different coded data.

While the devices 115, sensors 150, and/or external cameras 155 maycommunicate with each other through the control panel 105 usingcommunication links 125, the devices 115, sensors 150, and/or externalcameras 155 may also communicate directly with one or more other devices115, sensors 150, and/or external cameras 155 via one or more directcommunication links 125. Two or more devices 115, sensors 150, and/orexternal cameras may communicate via a direct communication link 125when both devices 115, sensors 150, and/or external cameras 155 are inthe geographic coverage area 110 or when one or neither devices 115,sensors 150, and/or external cameras 155 are within the geographiccoverage area 110. Examples of direct communication links 125 mayinclude Wi-Fi Direct, BLUETOOTH®, wired, and/or, and other P2P groupconnections. The devices 115, sensors 150, and/or external cameras 155in these examples may communicate according to the WLAN radio andbaseband protocol including physical and MAC layers from IEEE 802.11,and its various versions including, but not limited to, 802.11b,802.11g, 802.11a, 802.11n, 802.11ac, 802.11ad, 802.11ah, etc. In otherimplementations, other peer-to-peer connections and/or ad hoc networksmay be implemented within communications system 100.

The control panel 105 may monitor the external camera 155 and maytrigger an alert to a user based on one or more images captured by theexternal camera 155. For example, the external camera 155 may operate tocapture one or more images or may operate in conjunction with one ormore sensors 150 to capture images in relation or in conjunction toanother event. For example, the control panel 105 may command theexternal camera 155 to capture one or more images when a motion sensor150 proximate the external camera 155 is activated. In anotherembodiment, the control panel 105 may command the external camera 155 tocapture a continuous stream of imagery between predetermined timesperiods. In yet another embodiment, the control panel 105 may commandthe external camera 155 to continuously capture images and stream theimages back to the control panel 105 for storage and potential review.

FIG. 2 shows a block diagram 200 of an control panel 205 for use inelectronic communication, in accordance with various aspects of thisdisclosure. The control panel 205 may be an example of one or moreaspects of a control panel 105 described with reference to FIG. 1. Thecontrol panel 205 may include a receiver module 210, an external imagemodule 215, and/or a transmitter module 220. The control panel 205 mayalso be or include a processor. Each of these modules may be incommunication with each other—directly and/or indirectly.

The components of the control panel 205 may, individually orcollectively, be implemented using one or more application-specificintegrated circuits (ASICs) adapted to perform some or all of theapplicable functions in hardware. Alternatively, the functions may beperformed by one or more other processing units (or cores), on one ormore integrated circuits. In other examples, other types of integratedcircuits may be used (e.g., Structured/Platform ASICs, FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), and other Semi-Custom ICs), which maybe programmed in any manner known in the art. The functions of eachmodule may also be implemented—in whole or in part—with instructionsembodied in memory formatted to be executed by one or more generaland/or application-specific processors.

The receiver module 210 may receive information such as packets, userdata, and/or control information associated with various informationchannels (e.g., control channels, data channels, etc.). The receivermodule 210 may be configured to receive one or more inputs from a useror a sensor, one or more images, or the like. Information may be passedon to the external image module 215, and to other components of thecontrol panel 205.

The external image module 215 may control one or more aspects of anexternal camera (e.g. external camera 155, FIG. 1). The external imagemodule 215 may receive one or more inputs from a sensor and/or a user.The external image module 215 may use the information received andgenerate one or more commands for an external camera associated with theautomation system (e.g. external camera 155). The external image module215 may additionally receive one or more images from the externalcamera. The external image module 215 may evaluate and analyze theimages received, may store the images, may forward one or more images toa user, or the like.

The transmitter module 220 may transmit the one or more signals receivedfrom other components of the control panel 205. The transmitter module220 may transmit one or more commands to an external camera, one or morealerts or messages to a user, and the like. In some examples, thetransmitter module 220 may be collocated with the receiver module 210 ina transceiver module.

FIG. 3 shows a block diagram 300 of a control panel 205-a for use inwireless communication, in accordance with various examples. The controlpanel 205-a may be an example of one or more aspects of a control panel105 described with reference to FIG. 1. It may also be an example of acontrol panel 205 described with reference to FIG. 2. The control panel205-a may include a receiver module 210-a, an external image module215-a, and/or a transmitter module 220-a, which may be examples of thecorresponding modules of control panel 205. The control panel 205-a mayalso include a processor. Each of these components may be incommunication with each other. The external image module 215-a mayinclude a connect module 305, a command module 310, and an analysismodule 315. The receiver module 210-a and the transmitter module 220-amay perform the functions of the receiver module 210 and the transmittermodule 220, of FIG. 2, respectively.

The components of the control panel 205-a may, individually orcollectively, be implemented using one or more application-specificintegrated circuits (ASICs) adapted to perform some or all of theapplicable functions in hardware. Alternatively, the functions may beperformed by one or more other processing units (or cores), on one ormore integrated circuits. In other examples, other types of integratedcircuits may be used (e.g., Structured/Platform ASICs, FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), and other Semi-Custom ICs), which maybe programmed in any manner known in the art. The functions of eachmodule may also be implemented—in whole or in part—with instructionsembodied in memory formatted to be executed by one or more generaland/or application-specific processors.

The connect module 305 may connect one or more mobile external cameras(e.g. external camera 155) to the control panel 205-a. For example,there may be a linking feature on the external camera which may connectto a wireless network associated with the control panel 205-a. Theconnect module 305 may detect a Bluetooth signal or other wirelesssignal used to connect devices to the control panel 205-a. Connectingthe external camera may additionally include setting up one or moremonitoring parameters of the camera. For example, setting up the cameramay comprise assigning the region being observed to the control panel205-a. If a sensor is proximate the camera, the sensor may additionallybe linked to the camera. In another embodiment, the camera itself maycomprise one or more sensors. The sensors may additionally be connectedto the control panel 205-a. The sensors may be registered with thecontrol panel 205-a. Registering the sensor may comprise setting up thesensing capabilities and linking the sensor to the camera and potentialimages captured by the camera.

The command module 310 may receive one or more pieces of informationfrom one or more sources and may generate one or more commands based atleast in part on one or more activation parameters. The activationparameters may be based at least in part on received information. Theinformation may comprise one or more inputs from a user, a sensor, or aremote server. The information may comprise a request from a user torecord images from the external camera. For example, a user may beconcerned with one or more events or incidences and may request a camerato capture images. The request may specify a length of time as well, apredetermined time frame and duration, etc. The request may additionallycomprise one or more variables. For example, the user may request imagescaptured from a specific external camera when a sensor proximate thecamera is activated or captures one or more requirements. For example,the user may request one or more images to be captured when a motionsensor proximate the external camera is activated.

The command module 310 may generate and send one or more commands basedon one or more security parameters. The security parameters may be basedat least in part on input from one or more sensors. For example, one ormore sensors may activate a security alert within the automation system.The command module 310 may generate and send a command to the externalcamera to begin image capturing upon the activation of the securityalert. The security parameters may additionally comprise one or moreemergency alerts from a sensor, another module proximate the securitysensor, a public emergency alert, or the like.

The command module 310 may generate one or more commands in response toa request from a remote server. The remote server may track one or morecommunity, state, city, or other governmental alerts. The alerts maycomprise one or more safety concerns, environmental concerns, or thelike. For example, the alert may initiate the command module 310 togenerate and send a command for the external camera to immediately begincapturing external images.

The analysis module 315 may gather one or more images from the one ormore external cameras. The analysis module 315 may store the images,analyze the images, and send the images to a user or remote server, orthe like. For example, if the external camera is set to continuouslycollect images, the control panel 205-a may gather and store the images.The control panel 205-a may store the images locally or remotely. Forexample, the control panel 205-a may store the images in a memory or maytransfer the images to a remote storage (e.g. remote storage 145). Insome embodiments, the control panel 205-a may retain a predeterminedamount or duration of images locally and may transfer the older imagesto the remote server. This may allow the more immediate images to bedisplayed to a user if necessary or requested.

In some embodiments, the analysis module 315 may attempt to analyze theimages. For example, the analysis module 315 may attempt to identifymovement in an image. The analysis module 315 may additionally attemptto recognize and determine the object moving. If the object is a person,the analysis module 315 may use facial recognition to determine if theperson is a user of the automation system, a person requiring an alert,or the like. For example, if a user has a restraining order, the usermay load the undesirable person's facial imagery into the control panel205-a and the analysis module 315 may review identified persons todetermine if the undesirable person is within a predetermined proximityof a home. If the analysis module 315 cannot recognize a person, theanalysis module 315 may transmit the image to a user of the automationsystem for further information. The user may identify the person, or maynot recognize the person and may generate an alert.

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram 400 of an external camera 405 for use inelectronic communication, in accordance with various aspects of thisdisclosure. The external camera 405 may be an example of one or moreaspects of an external camera 155 described with reference to FIG. 1.The external camera 405 may include a receiver module 410, an externalcamera module 415, and/or a transmitter module 420. The external camera405 may also be or include a processor. Each of these modules may be incommunication with each other—directly and/or indirectly.

The components of the external camera 405 may, individually orcollectively, be implemented using one or more application-specificintegrated circuits (ASICs) adapted to perform some or all of theapplicable functions in hardware. Alternatively, the functions may beperformed by one or more other processing units (or cores), on one ormore integrated circuits. In other examples, other types of integratedcircuits may be used (e.g., Structured/Platform ASICs, FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), and other Semi-Custom ICs), which maybe programmed in any manner known in the art. The functions of eachmodule may also be implemented—in whole or in part—with instructionsembodied in memory formatted to be executed by one or more generaland/or application-specific processors.

The receiver module 410 may receive information such as packets, userdata, and/or control information associated with various informationchannels (e.g., control channels, data channels, etc.). The receivermodule 410 may be configured to receive one or more inputs or commandsfrom a control panel. Information may be passed on to the externalcamera module 415, and to other components of the external camera 405.

The external camera module 415 may control one or more aspects of theexternal camera (e.g. external camera 155, FIG. 1). The external cameramodule 415 may receive one or more inputs from a control panel (e.g.control panel 105 and/or 205). The inputs may comprise a connectingrequest and/or a command. The connecting request may facilitate creatinga communicative connection between the control panel and the externalcamera 405. The commands may direct and/or monitor one or more settingsof the external camera 405. The external camera module 415 additionallymay receive one or more visual and/or audio inputs from a visual and/oraudio capturing apparatus proximate the external camera 405. In someembodiments, the visual and/or audio capturing apparatus may be locatedwithin the same housing.

The transmitter module 420 may transmit the one or more signals receivedfrom other components of the external camera 405. The transmitter module420 may transmit one or more images and/or audio files to the controlpanel. In some examples, the transmitter module 420 may be collocatedwith the receiver module 410 in a transceiver module.

FIG. 5 shows a block diagram 500 of an external camera 405-a for use inwireless communication, in accordance with various examples. Theexternal camera 405-a may be an example of one or more aspects of anexternal camera 155 described with reference to FIG. 1. It may also bean example of an external camera 405 described with reference to FIG. 2.The external camera 405-a may include a receiver module 410-a, anexternal camera module 415-a, and/or a transmitter module 420-a, whichmay be examples of the corresponding modules of external camera 405. Theexternal camera 405-a may also include a processor. Each of thesecomponents may be in communication with each other. The external cameramodule 415-a may include a communication module 505 and a capture module510. The receiver module 410-a and the transmitter module 420-a mayperform the functions of the receiver module 410 and the transmittermodule 420, of FIG. 4, respectively.

The components of the external camera 405-a may, individually orcollectively, be implemented using one or more application-specificintegrated circuits (ASICs) adapted to perform some or all of theapplicable functions in hardware. Alternatively, the functions may beperformed by one or more other processing units (or cores), on one ormore integrated circuits. In other examples, other types of integratedcircuits may be used (e.g., Structured/Platform ASICs, FieldProgrammable Gate Arrays (FPGAs), and other Semi-Custom ICs), which maybe programmed in any manner known in the art. The functions of eachmodule may also be implemented—in whole or in part—with instructionsembodied in memory formatted to be executed by one or more generaland/or application-specific processors.

The communication module 505 may facilitate and interpret commandsand/or communications with a control panel (e.g. control panel 105,205). The communication module 505 may receive one or more connectionrequests from the control panel and may wirelessly connect with thecontrol panel. In another embodiment, the external camera 405-a mayconnect to the control panel using one or more wired connections. Thecommunication module 505 may activate one or more audiovisual componentsof the external camera 405-a. The audiovisual components may comprisestrictly visual components, strictly audio components, a combinationaudiovisual components, or combinations thereof. For the purposes ofthis disclosure, the term audiovisual will comprise any combination ofthese components.

The commands may require one or more audiovisual components to commence,cease, or alter one or more recording settings. The one or morerecording settings may additionally comprise changing a view of thecamera. For example, the external camera 405-a may be mounted on amotion apparatus which may allow the external camera 405-a to swiveland/or rotate in a multitude of directions.

The communication module 505 may send one or more audiovisual files tothe control panel. The communication module 505 may receive one or morefiles from the capture module 510. The communication module 505 may sendthem via one or more wireless or wired connections to the control panel.In some embodiments, the communication module 505 may compress and/ordivide the file into multiple smaller sub-files for ease oftransmission. If the file is subdivided, the sub-files may comprise oneor more identifiers to accurately recompile the file into its originalstate.

The capture module 510 may capture one or more audiovisual data, images,files, or the like. The capture module 510 may alter the data gatheringapparatus to record only one of sound, image, or both. The capturemodule 510 may locally store the files prior to sending them to thecontrol panel. In another embodiment, the capture module 510 maydirectly stream the gathered data to the control panel. In yet anotherembodiment, the capture module 510 may stream the data to the controlpanel but have limited emergency storage capabilities to store the dataif the connection fails.

FIG. 6 shows a system 600 for use in portable external camera systems,in accordance with various examples. System 600 may include a controlpanel 205-b, which may be an example of the control panels 105 ofFIG. 1. Control panel 205-b may also be an example of one or moreaspects of control panels 205 and/or 205-a of FIGS. 2 and 3.

The control panel 205-b may include an emergency module 445. The controlpanel 205-b may also include external image module 215-b, which may bean example of the external image module 215 described with reference toFIGS. 2 and/or 3. In some embodiments, the terms a control panel and acontrol device are used synonymously.

Control panel 205-b may also include components for bi-directional voiceand data communications including components for transmittingcommunications and components for receiving communications. For example,control panel 205-b may communicate bidirectionally with one or more ofexternal camera 405-b, one or more sensors 150-a, remote storage 140,and/or remote server 145-a, which may be an example of the remote serverof FIG. 1. This bi-directional communication may be direct (e.g.,control panel 205-b communicating directly with remote storage 140) orindirect (e.g., control panel 205-b communicating indirectly with remoteserver 145-a through remote storage 140).

The emergency module 645 may relay one or more audio, visual, oraudiovisual files to emergency personnel based at least in part on oneor more emergency parameters. For example, the automation system maycomprise one or more emergency status alerts and/or emergency statusreceptors. The emergency status alerts may comprise one or more settingsunique to the automation system. The emergency status alert may beautomatically activated due to one or more inputs received by thecontrol panel 205-b. The emergency status alert may additionally begenerated by a user. In some embodiments, if emergency personnel arecontacted, the emergency module 645 may transmit audiovisual data froman external camera 405-b to the emergency personnel. Additionally, thecontrol panel 205-b may be connected to one or more public emergencyalert systems. Depending upon the specifics of the alert, the controlpanel 205-b may activate one or more external cameras 405-b and eitheranalyze the data locally or send the data to one or more emergencypersonnel to analyze.

The external image module 215-b may direct and/or receive informationfrom one or more external cameras based at least in part on activationparameters as described above with reference to FIG. 3. For example, theactivation parameters may comprise one or more requirements to besatisfied prior to activating one or more external parameters. Therequirements may comprise user input, security settings, emergency alarmsystem warnings, and the like. The external image module 215-b maygather and analyze information provided by an external camera based atleast in part on the one or more activation parameters.

Control panel 205-b may also include a processor module 605, and memory610 (including software/firmware code (SW) 615), an input/outputcontroller module 620, a user interface module 625, a transceiver module630, and one or more antennas 635 each of which may communicate—directlyor indirectly—with one another (e.g., via one or more buses 640). Thetransceiver module 630 may communicate bi-directionally—via the one ormore antennas 635, wired links, and/or wireless links—with one or morenetworks or remote devices as described above. For example, thetransceiver module 630 may communicate bi-directionally with one or moreof external camera 405-b, remote storage 140, and/or remote server145-a. The transceiver module 630 may include a modem to modulate thepackets and provide the modulated packets to the one or more antennas635 for transmission, and to demodulate packets received from the one ormore antenna 635. While a control panel or a control device (e.g.,205-b) may include a single antenna 635, the control panel or thecontrol device may also have multiple antennas 635 capable ofconcurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wired and/or wirelesstransmissions. In some embodiments, one element of control panel 205-b(e.g., one or more antennas 635, transceiver module 630, etc.) mayprovide a direct connection to a remote server 145-a via a directnetwork link to the Internet via a POP (point of presence). In someembodiments, one element of control panel 205-b (e.g., one or moreantennas 635, transceiver module 630, etc.) may provide a connectionusing wireless techniques, including digital cellular telephoneconnection, Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) connection, digitalsatellite data connection, and/or another connection.

The signals associated with system 600 may include wirelesscommunication signals such as radio frequency, electromagnetics, localarea network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), virtual private network(VPN), wireless network (using 802.11, for example), 345 MHz, Z-WAVE®,cellular network (using 3G and/or LTE, for example), and/or othersignals. The one or more antennas 635 and/or transceiver module 630 mayinclude or be related to, but are not limited to, WWAN (GSM, CDMA, andWCDMA), WLAN (including BLUETOOTH® and Wi-Fi), WMAN (WiMAX), antennasfor mobile communications, antennas for Wireless Personal Area Network(WPAN) applications (including RFID and UWB). In some embodiments, eachantenna 635 may receive signals or information specific and/or exclusiveto itself. In other embodiments, each antenna 635 may receive signals orinformation not specific or exclusive to itself.

In some embodiments, one or more sensors 150-a (e.g., motion, proximity,smoke, light, glass break, door, window, carbon monoxide, and/or anothersensor) may connect to some element of system 600 via a network usingone or more wired and/or wireless connections. The one or more sensors150-a may be proximate the external camera 405-b. The external camera405-b may capture one or more outdoor audiovisual signals. In someembodiments, the external camera 405-b may be independent of the sensors150-a. The external camera 405-b may connect to some element of thesystem 600 via using one or more wired and/or wireless connections.

In some embodiments, the user interface module 625 may include an audiodevice, such as an external speaker system, an external display devicesuch as a display screen, and/or an input device (e.g., remote controldevice interfaced with the user interface module 625 directly and/orthrough I/O controller module 620).

One or more buses 640 may allow data communication between one or moreelements of control panel 205-b (e.g., processor module 605, memory 610,I/O controller module 620, user interface module 625, etc.).

The memory 610 may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory(ROM), flash RAM, and/or other types. The memory 610 may storecomputer-readable, computer-executable software/firmware code 615including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor module605 to perform various functions described in this disclosure (e.g.,activating one or more external cameras, receiving and analyzing one ormore audiovisual data from the external camera, activating an emergencysurveillance system, etc.). Alternatively, the software/firmware code615 may not be directly executable by the processor module 605 but maycause a computer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functionsdescribed herein. Alternatively, the computer-readable,computer-executable software/firmware code 615 may not be directlyexecutable by the processor module 605 but may be configured to cause acomputer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functionsdescribed herein. The processor module 605 may include an intelligenthardware device, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), amicrocontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.

The memory 610 can contain, among other things, the Basic Input-Outputsystem (BIOS) which may control basic hardware and/or software operationsuch as the interaction with peripheral components or devices. Forexample, the emergency module 645 and/or external camera module 415-bwhich implements the present systems and methods may be stored withinthe system memory 610. Applications resident with system 600 aregenerally stored on and accessed via a non-transitory computer readablemedium, such as a hard disk drive or other storage medium. Additionally,applications can be in the form of electronic signals modulated inaccordance with the application and data communication technology whenaccessed via a network interface (e.g., transceiver module 630, one ormore antennas 635, etc.).

Many other devices and/or subsystems may be connected to one or may beincluded as one or more elements of system 600 (e.g., entertainmentsystem, computing device, remote cameras, wireless key fob, wall mounteduser interface device, cell radio module, battery, alarm siren, doorlock, lighting system, thermostat, home appliance monitor, utilityequipment monitor, and so on). In some embodiments, all of the elementsshown in FIG. 6 need not be present to practice the present systems andmethods. The devices and subsystems can be interconnected in differentways from that shown in FIG. 6. In some embodiments, an aspect of someoperation of a system, such as that shown in FIG. 6, may be readilyknown in the art and are not discussed in detail in this application.Code to implement the present disclosure can be stored in anon-transitory computer-readable medium such as one or more of systemmemory 610 or other memory. The operating system provided on I/Ocontroller module 620 may be iOS®, ANDROID®, MS-DOS®, MS-WINDOWS®,OS/2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system.

The transceiver module 630 may include a modem configured to modulatethe packets and provide the modulated packets to the antennas 635 fortransmission and/or to demodulate packets received from the antennas635. While the external camera 405-b may include a single antenna 635,the external camera 405-b may have multiple antennas 635 capable ofconcurrently transmitting and/or receiving multiple wirelesstransmissions.

FIG. 7 shows a system 700 for use in external surveillance systems, inaccordance with various examples. System 700 may include an externalcamera 405-c, which may be an example of the external camera 155 ofFIG. 1. External camera 405-c may also be an example of one or moreaspects of external camera 405 and/or 405-a of FIGS. 4 and 5.

External camera 405-c may also include components for bi-directionalvoice and data communications including components for transmittingcommunications and components for receiving communications. For example,external camera 405-c may communicate bi-directionally with one or moreof external cameras 405-c, one or more sensors 150-b, one or morecontrol panels 205-c, remote storage 140-a, and/or remote server 145-b,which may be an example of the remote server of FIG. 1. Thisbi-directional communication may be direct (e.g., external camera 405-ccommunicating directly with remote storage 140-a) or indirect (e.g.,external camera 405-c communicating indirectly with remote server 145-bthrough remote storage 140-a).

External camera 405-c may also include a processor module 705, andmemory 710 (including software/firmware code (SW) 715), an input/outputcontroller module 720, a user interface module 725, a transceiver module730, and one or more antennas 735 each of which may communicate—directlyor indirectly—with one another (e.g., via one or more buses 740). Thetransceiver module 730 may communicate bi-directionally—via the one ormore antennas 735, wired links, and/or wireless links—with one or morenetworks or remote devices as described above. For example, thetransceiver module 730 may communicate bi-directionally with one or moreof external camera 405-c, remote storage 140-a, and/or remote server145-b. The transceiver module 730 may include a modem to modulate thepackets and provide the modulated packets to the one or more antennas735 for transmission, and to demodulate packets received from the one ormore antenna 735. While a control panel or a control device (e.g.,205-b) may include a single antenna 735, the control panel or thecontrol device may also have multiple antennas 735 capable ofconcurrently transmitting or receiving multiple wired and/or wirelesstransmissions. In some embodiments, one element of external camera 405-c(e.g., one or more antennas 735, transceiver module 730, etc.) mayprovide a direct connection to a remote server 145-b via a directnetwork link to the Internet via a POP (point of presence). In someembodiments, one element of external camera 405-c (e.g., one or moreantennas 735, transceiver module 730, etc.) may provide a connectionusing wireless techniques, including digital cellular telephoneconnection, Cellular Digital Packet Data (CDPD) connection, digitalsatellite data connection, and/or another connection.

The signals associated with system 700 may include wirelesscommunication signals such as radio frequency, electromagnetics, localarea network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), virtual private network(VPN), wireless network (using 802.11, for example), 345 MHz, Z-WAVE®,cellular network (using 3G and/or LTE, for example), and/or othersignals. The one or more antennas 735 and/or transceiver module 730 mayinclude or be related to, but are not limited to, WWAN (GSM, CDMA, andWCDMA), WLAN (including BLUETOOTH® and Wi-Fi), WMAN (WiMAX), antennasfor mobile communications, antennas for Wireless Personal Area Network(WPAN) applications (including RFID and UWB). In some embodiments, eachantenna 735 may receive signals or information specific and/or exclusiveto itself. In other embodiments, each antenna 735 may receive signals orinformation not specific or exclusive to itself.

In some embodiments, one or more sensors 150-b (e.g., motion, proximity,smoke, light, glass break, door, window, carbon monoxide, and/or anothersensor) may connect to some element of system 700 via a network usingone or more wired and/or wireless connections.

In some embodiments, the user interface module 725 may include an audiodevice, such as an external speaker system, an external display devicesuch as a display screen, and/or an input device (e.g., remote controldevice interfaced with the user interface module 725 directly and/orthrough I/O controller module 720).

One or more buses 740 may allow data communication between one or moreelements of external camera 405-c (e.g., processor module 705, memory710, I/O controller module 720, user interface module 725, etc.).

The memory 710 may include random access memory (RAM), read only memory(ROM), flash RAM, and/or other types. The memory 710 may storecomputer-readable, computer-executable software/firmware code 715including instructions that, when executed, cause the processor module705 to perform various functions described in this disclosure (e.g.,activate one or more audio, visual, audiovisual components, transmitobserved data, etc.). Alternatively, the software/firmware code 715 maynot be directly executable by the processor module 705 but may cause acomputer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functionsdescribed herein. Alternatively, the computer-readable,computer-executable software/firmware code 715 may not be directlyexecutable by the processor module 705 but may be configured to cause acomputer (e.g., when compiled and executed) to perform functionsdescribed herein. The processor module 705 may include an intelligenthardware device, e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), amicrocontroller, an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), etc.

The memory 710 can contain, among other things, the Basic Input-Outputsystem (BIOS) which may control basic hardware and/or software operationsuch as the interaction with peripheral components or devices. Forexample, an external camera module 415-b to implement the presentsystems and methods may be stored within the system memory 710.Applications resident with system 700 are generally stored on andaccessed via a non-transitory computer readable medium, such as a harddisk drive or other storage medium. Additionally, applications can be inthe form of electronic signals modulated in accordance with theapplication and data communication technology when accessed via anetwork interface (e.g., transceiver module 730, one or more antennas735, etc.).

Many other devices and/or subsystems may be connected to one or may beincluded as one or more elements of system 700 (e.g., entertainmentsystem, computing device, remote cameras, wireless key fob, wall mounteduser interface device, cell radio module, battery, alarm siren, doorlock, lighting system, thermostat, home appliance monitor, utilityequipment monitor, and so on). In some embodiments, all of the elementsshown in FIG. 7 need not be present to practice the present systems andmethods. The devices and subsystems can be interconnected in differentways from that shown in FIG. 7. In some embodiments, an aspect of someoperation of a system, such as that shown in FIG. 7, may be readilyknown in the art and are not discussed in detail in this application.Code to implement the present disclosure can be stored in anon-transitory computer-readable medium such as one or more of systemmemory 710 or other memory. The operating system provided on I/Ocontroller module 720 may be iOS®, ANDROID®, MS-DOS®, MS-WINDOWS®,OS/2®, UNIX®, LINUX®, or another known operating system.

The transceiver module 730 may include a modem configured to modulatethe packets and provide the modulated packets to the antennas 735 fortransmission and/or to demodulate packets received from the antennas735. While the control panel 205-c may include a single antenna 735, thecontrol panel 205-c may have multiple antennas 735 capable ofconcurrently transmitting and/or receiving multiple wirelesstransmissions.

The external camera 405-c may include the external camera module 415-b,which may perform the functions described above for the external cameramodule 415 of external camera 405 of FIGS. 4 and 5.

FIG. 8 shows a system 800 for use in external surveillance systems, inaccordance with various examples. System 800 may include an externalcamera 405-d, which may be an example of the external camera 155 ofFIG. 1. The external camera 405-d may also be an example of one or moreaspects of external cameras 405, 405-a, 405-b, and/or 405-c of FIGS.4-7. The external camera 405-d may consist of a first half 805 inside abuilding, and a second half 810 outside the building. A divider 815 mayseparate the first half 805 and the second half 810. The divider 815 mayinclude a wall, window, door, or the like. The divider 815 may define apredetermined distance between the first half 805 and the second half810. In some embodiments, the second half 810 may additionally be insidethe building and instead of an exterior divider 815 separating the twohalves 805, 810, an interior portion of the building may be separatingthe halves.

The first half 805 of the external camera 405-d may comprise a firstactivation light source 820, a dedicated power line 825 connected to aplug unit 830, and a rechargeable battery 865. The first activationlight source 820 may illuminate a light, such as an LED, when the twohalves 805,810 of the external camera 405-d are in communication asdiscussed below. The dedicated power line 825 and plug unit 830 mayconnect the first half 805 of the external camera 405-d to a continuouspower supply 835, such as an outlet in a home or business. In someembodiments, the first half 805 may additionally and/or alternativelyinclude one or more of a bus, a transceiver, an antenna, a userinterface, a I/O controller, a memory, and/or a processor. Thecomponents may facilitate communication with a control panel and/or withthe second half 810 of the external camera 405-d.

The second half 810 of the external camera 405-d may comprise an imagegathering apparatus 840, an audio recording apparatus 845, a speaker850, and a second activation light source 855. The image gatheringapparatus 840 may comprise a camera, video recorder, or the like. Theimage gathering apparatus 840 may comprise a variety of cameras. Forexample, the camera may comprise a digital camera. The camera maycomprise a low voltage camera (e.g. a 3V or lower) or a high voltagecamera (e.g. greater than 3V). The voltage range of the camera maydetermine the quality of the images gathered and may be defined and/orlimited by the power source.

The image gathering apparatus 840 may record and/or transmit stillimages and/or video images to the second half 810 of the camera, to alocal memory (not shown) (e.g. memory 710), to a control panel (e.g.control panel 205), or the like.

The audio recording apparatus 845 may record audio data proximate theexternal camera 405-d. In some embodiments, the audio recordingapparatus 845 may comprise a microphone. The audio data collected maycomprise any sound over a predetermined decibel level. The speaker 850may emit sound. The sound may comprise an alert, a recording, or thelike. The second activation light source 855 may illuminate when thesecond half 810 of the external camera 405-d is connected to an activepower source.

The second half 810 of the external camera 405-d may additionallycomprise one or more components shown in FIG. 7 with reference toexternal camera 405-b. For example, the second half 810 of the externalcamera 405-d may comprise one or more of a bus, a transceiver, anantenna, a user interface, a I/O controller, a memory, and/or aprocessor. The components may facilitate communication with the controlpanel and/or with the second half 810 of the external camera 405-d.

The first half 805 and second half 810 of the external camera 405-d maycommunicate via connection 860 across the divider 815. The connection860 may represent one or more of a power connection, a magneticconnection, or a data connection. The divider 815 may comprise a wall, awindow, a door, or the like.

The power connection may comprise an induction power connection whereinpower may be transmitted between the two halves 805, 810 through the useof an electromagnetic field. For example, the first half 805 maycomprise an electricity transmission unit and the second half 810 mayinclude an electricity receiving unit which may power the imagegathering apparatus 840, audio recording apparatus 845, speaker 850 andother components proximate the second half 810. In some embodiments, theinduction power connection may comprise resonant inductive coupling. Inthe example provided, each half 805, 810 of the external camera 405-dmay comprise one or more components unique to induction power transfer.The electricity transmission unit of the first half 805, which isconnected to the continuous power supply 835, may include an inductioncoil which may create an alternating electromagnetic field. Theelectricity receiving unit of the second half 810 of the external camera405-d may include a second induction coil which may receive the powerfrom the electromagnetic field and convert it back to an electricalcurrent. The electrical current may power the camera proximate thesecond half. This will be discussed further with reference to FIG. 9.When the power supply is active and the second half 810 is receivingelectricity, the first activation light source 820 and/or the secondactivation light source 855 may illuminate.

In some embodiments, the second half 810 may include a rechargeablebattery (not shown). The rechargeable battery may store any excess powertransferred to the second half 810 and act as an emergency power supportshould the power go out on the first half 805. Additionally, the firsthalf 805 may comprise a rechargeable battery 865 which may be chargedusing the continuous power supply 835. The rechargeable battery 865 maycontinue to supply power to the second half 810 in the event of a poweroutage. In another embodiment, the battery may be used as a primarypower source. The battery may charge and store power which may be ahigher power reserve available from the inductive coil. The high powerreserve may allow the unit to perform functions not normally activewhile in a lower power state, including but not limited to poweringimage capture, image analysis, communication, two way audiocommunication, etc.

The magnetic connection may comprise a magnetic field between twocomponents proximate the first and second halves 805, 810 of theexternal camera 405-d. The strength of the magnetic field may overcomethe force of gravity and allow the two halves 805, 810 of the externalcamera 405-d to remain in an suspended position on the divider 815without altering the divider 815. The magnetic force may be created bytwo magnets each within a half 805, 810 of the external camera 405-d inproximate position to align. In other embodiments, only one side maycomprise a magnet and the other may comprise a material attracted to amagnetic force which may create the magnetic connection. The magneticconnection may allow the halves 805, 810 to adhere to the divider 815with the need for permanent or semi-permanent mounting features.

The data connection may include a near field communication (NFC)protocol. The near NFC may allow the two halves 805, 810 of the externalcamera 405-d to communicate with each other using radio communication.The NFC protocol may use electromagnetic induction between two loopsantennas respectively proximate each half 805, 810 of the externalcamera 405-d. The two loops antennas may comprise the same antennas usedfor the induction power, or may comprise an additional set of loopantennas. In further embodiments, the data connection may includeoptical data transfer. The two halves 805, 810 of the external camera405-d may comprise one or more devices capable of optically transferringdata from the second half 810 to the first half 805. If data istransferred from the second half 810 to the first half 805, the firsthalf 805 may transfer the data to a control panel or another receivingdevice.

FIG. 9 shows a system 900 for use in external surveillance systems, inaccordance with various examples. System 900 may comprise a component905 of the external camera (e.g. external camera 405, 405-a, 405-b,405-c, and 405-d). The component 905 of the external camera mayrepresent either a first half 805 or a second half 810 as described withreference to FIG. 8. The view shown is an exemplary cutaway view lookingat the camera half from the building viewpoint as represented by arrowsA and/or B in FIG. 8. The component 905 may include an induction coil910, a chip 915, connecting wires 920, one or more magnets 925, and/orone or more data transferring devices 930.

The induction coil 910 may transmit and/or receive power in conjunctionwith a chip 915 connected to the induction coil 910 via one or moreconnecting wires 920. For example, if the induction coil 910 is on theside with the continuous power source (e.g. continuous power supply835), the chip 915 may convert the electrical current to a magneticfield with lines of electrical force. The power side coil may ring withan oscillating current creating an oscillating magnetic field. This maycreate an electricity transmission unit. A second coil, the inductioncoil 910 on a receiving end (e.g. first half 805), may pick up theenergy generated by the oscillating magnetic current. The current mayresonate with the receiving coil. The chip 915 may convert the energyback into an electrical current and use the electrical current to powerone or more devices proximate the receiving end such as a camera, audioreceptor, or the like. This may comprise the electricity receiving unit.

The magnet 925 may have a complimentary magnet in the opposing half ofthe camera. The two magnets may align when the two halves of the cameraalign and cause the camera to essentially mount to a dividing apparatussuch as a window or wall. The magnet 925 may represent a singular magnetor a multitude of magnets strategically placed around the component 905.The magnets 925 may allow the two halves of the external camera toalign, ensuring the other devices proximate the component 905 align. Forexample, the magnets 925 may ensure the electricity transmission unitand electricity receiving unit align.

The data transferring device 930 may comprise one or components forwirelessly transferring data between the two halves of the camera. Thewireless transfer may comprise any type of short distance transfermediums. For example, the data transferring device 930 may comprise acoil for near field communication protocol. In another embodiment, thedata transferring device 930 may comprise one or more optical componentsfor optically transferring data between the two halves. The optical datatransfer may only work if the two halves of the camera are mounted on atransparent surface.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart illustrating an example of a method 1000 formonitoring external environments, in accordance with various aspects ofthe present disclosure. For clarity, the method 1000 is described belowwith reference to aspects of one or more of the control panel 205described with reference to FIG. 2, 3, or 6, and/or aspects of one ormore of the external camera described with reference to FIG. 4, 5, or7-9. In some examples, a the control panel may execute one or more setsof codes to control the functional elements of the external camera toperform the functions described below. Additionally or alternatively,the control panel may perform one or more of the functions describedbelow using special-purpose hardware.

At block 1005, the method 1000 may include generating one or morecommands. The commands may be specific to a mobile external camera. Morespecifically a two-piece unit which may comprise a first half internalto a building and a second half external to a building wherein a pieceof the building such as a glass or wall may separate the two halves. Thecommands may activate or deactivate one or more aspects of the camera,receive one or pieces of data form the camera, and the like. The cameramay be equipped with a rotating camera lens capable of viewing multipleoptions; the camera may capture moving and/or still images.Additionally, the camera may have an microphone or audio receiving unit.The control panel may activate or deactivate any of these aspects of thecamera and additionally request any necessary files or data betransferred to the control panel. At block 1010, the method 1000 mayinclude transmitting one or more commands to the mobile external camera.

The operation(s) at block 1005 and 1010 may be performed using thecommand module 310 described with reference to FIG. 3.

At block 1015, the method 1000 may include receiving one or more piecesof data from the mobile external camera. At block 1020, the method 1000may include analyzing the one or more pieces of data. Analyzing the datamay comprise isolating any audio data with specific identifiable soundcharacteristics such as glass breaking, dog barking, human voices,gunshots, and the like. Analyzing an image may comprise isolating anyimage data with specific image requirements such as a person, or a timeframe, or motion, or the like.

The operation(s) at blocks 1015 and 1020 may be performed using theanalysis module 315 described with reference to FIG. 3.

Thus, the method 1000 may provide for analyzing one or more pieces ofdata collecting by a mobile camera unit relating to automation/securitysystems. It should be noted that the method 1000 is just oneimplementation and that the operations of the method 1000 may berearranged or otherwise modified such that other implementations arepossible.

It should be noted that the method 1000 is just example implementations.The operations of the method 1000 may be rearranged or otherwisemodified such that other implementations are possible.

The detailed description set forth above in connection with the appendeddrawings describes examples and does not represent the only instancesthat may be implemented or that are within the scope of the claims. Theterms “example” and “exemplary,” when used in this description, mean“serving as an example, instance, or illustration,” and not “preferred”or “advantageous over other examples.” The detailed description includesspecific details for the purpose of providing an understanding of thedescribed techniques. These techniques, however, may be practicedwithout these specific details. In some instances, known structures andapparatuses are shown in block diagram form in order to avoid obscuringthe concepts of the described examples.

Information and signals may be represented using any of a variety ofdifferent technologies and techniques. For example, data, instructions,commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, and chips that may bereferenced throughout the above description may be represented byvoltages, currents, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or particles,optical fields or particles, or any combination thereof.

The various illustrative blocks and components described in connectionwith this disclosure may be implemented or performed with ageneral-purpose processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an ASIC, anFPGA or other programmable logic device, discrete gate or transistorlogic, discrete hardware components, or any combination thereof designedto perform the functions described herein. A general-purpose processormay be a microprocessor, but in the alternative, the processor may beany conventional processor, controller, microcontroller, and/or statemachine. A processor may also be implemented as a combination ofcomputing devices, e.g., a combination of a DSP and a microprocessor,multiple microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in conjunctionwith a DSP core, and/or any other such configuration.

The functions described herein may be implemented in hardware, softwareexecuted by a processor, firmware, or any combination thereof. Ifimplemented in software executed by a processor, the functions may bestored on or transmitted over as one or more instructions or code on acomputer-readable medium. Other examples and implementations are withinthe scope and spirit of the disclosure and appended claims. For example,due to the nature of software, functions described above can beimplemented using software executed by a processor, hardware, firmware,hardwiring, or combinations of any of these. Features implementingfunctions may also be physically located at various positions, includingbeing distributed such that portions of functions are implemented atdifferent physical locations.

As used herein, including in the claims, the term “and/or,” when used ina list of two or more items, means that any one of the listed items canbe employed by itself, or any combination of two or more of the listeditems can be employed. For example, if a composition is described ascontaining components A, B, and/or C, the composition can contain Aalone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C in combination;B and C in combination; or A, B, and C in combination. Also, as usedherein, including in the claims, “or” as used in a list of items (forexample, a list of items prefaced by a phrase such as “at least one of”or “one or more of”) indicates a disjunctive list such that, forexample, a list of “at least one of A, B, or C” means A or B or C or ABor AC or BC or ABC (i.e., A and B and C).

In addition, any disclosure of components contained within othercomponents or separate from other components should be consideredexemplary because multiple other architectures may potentially beimplemented to achieve the same functionality, including incorporatingall, most, and/or some elements as part of one or more unitarystructures and/or separate structures.

Computer-readable media includes both computer storage media andcommunication media including any medium that facilitates transfer of acomputer program from one place to another. A storage medium may be anyavailable medium that can be accessed by a general purpose or specialpurpose computer. By way of example, and not limitation,computer-readable media can comprise RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory,CD-ROM, DVD, or other optical disk storage, magnetic disk storage orother magnetic storage devices, or any other medium that can be used tocarry or store desired program code means in the form of instructions ordata structures and that can be accessed by a general-purpose orspecial-purpose computer, or a general-purpose or special-purposeprocessor. Also, any connection is properly termed a computer-readablemedium. For example, if the software is transmitted from a website,server, or other remote source using a coaxial cable, fiber optic cable,twisted pair, digital subscriber line (DSL), or wireless technologiessuch as infrared, radio, and microwave, then the coaxial cable, fiberoptic cable, twisted pair, DSL, or wireless technologies such asinfrared, radio, and microwave are included in the definition of medium.Disk and disc, as used herein, include compact disc (CD), laser disc,optical disc, digital versatile disc (DVD), floppy disk, and Blu-raydisc where disks usually reproduce data magnetically, while discsreproduce data optically with lasers. Combinations of the above are alsoincluded within the scope of computer-readable media.

The previous description of the disclosure is provided to enable aperson skilled in the art to make or use the disclosure. Variousmodifications to the disclosure will be readily apparent to thoseskilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein may beapplied to other variations without departing from the scope of thedisclosure. Thus, the disclosure is not to be limited to the examplesand designs described herein but is to be accorded the broadest scopeconsistent with the principles and novel features disclosed.

This disclosure may specifically apply to security system applications.This disclosure may specifically apply to automation systemapplications. In some embodiments, the concepts, the technicaldescriptions, the features, the methods, the ideas, and/or thedescriptions may specifically apply to security and/or automation systemapplications. Distinct advantages of such systems for these specificapplications are apparent from this disclosure.

The process parameters, actions, and steps described and/or illustratedin this disclosure are given by way of example only and can be varied asdesired. For example, while the steps illustrated and/or described maybe shown or discussed in a particular order, these steps do notnecessarily need to be performed in the order illustrated or discussed.The various exemplary methods described and/or illustrated here may alsoomit one or more of the steps described or illustrated here or includeadditional steps in addition to those disclosed.

Furthermore, while various embodiments have been described and/orillustrated here in the context of fully functional computing systems,one or more of these exemplary embodiments may be distributed as aprogram product in a variety of forms, regardless of the particular typeof computer-readable media used to actually carry out the distribution.The embodiments disclosed herein may also be implemented using softwaremodules that perform certain tasks. These software modules may includescript, batch, or other executable files that may be stored on acomputer-readable storage medium or in a computing system. In someembodiments, these software modules may permit and/or instruct acomputing system to perform one or more of the exemplary embodimentsdisclosed here.

This description, for purposes of explanation, has been described withreference to specific embodiments. The illustrative discussions above,however, are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the present systemsand methods to the precise forms discussed. Many modifications andvariations are possible in view of the above teachings. The embodimentswere chosen and described in order to explain the principles of thepresent systems and methods and their practical applications, to enableothers skilled in the art to utilize the present systems, apparatus, andmethods and various embodiments with various modifications as may besuited to the particular use contemplated.

What is claimed is:
 1. An apparatus for security and/or automationsystems, comprising: a first half of the apparatus, the first half ofthe apparatus comprising an internal half of the apparatus configured tobe located inside a building; an electricity transmission unitpositioned within the first half; a first light source included in thefirst half of the apparatus, wherein the first light source illuminateswhen the electricity transmission unit is activated; a firstrechargeable battery included in the first half of the apparatus,wherein the first rechargeable battery charges using a continuous powersupply located inside the building; a second half of the apparatuspositioned on a divider configured to separate the inside of thebuilding from the outside of the building, the second half of theapparatus comprising an external half of the apparatus configured to belocated outside the building; an electricity receiving unit included inthe external half of the apparatus and positioned a predetermineddistance away from the electricity transmission unit; a second lightsource included in the second half of the apparatus, wherein the secondlight source illuminates when first half of the apparatus is incommunication with the second half of the apparatus; a camera includedin the external half of the apparatus, the camera powered by a portionof power received by the electricity receiving unit; and a secondrechargeable battery included in the second half of the apparatus,wherein the second rechargeable battery stores a remaining portion ofthe power received by the electricity receiving unit.
 2. The apparatusof claim 1, further comprising: a first magnet proximate the first half;a second magnet proximate the second half; wherein the first and secondmagnet are positioned to align the electricity transmission unit and theelectricity receiving unit.
 3. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein thesecond light source illuminates when the electricity receiving unit isactivated.
 4. The apparatus of claim 3, wherein activating theelectricity receiving unit comprises transferring power from theelectricity transmission unit to the electricity receiving unit.
 5. Theapparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an antenna proximate thesecond half.
 6. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an audiorecording device proximate the second half, the audio recording devicepowered by the electricity receiving unit.
 7. The apparatus of claim 1,wherein the electricity transmission unit comprises: a coil of wire; achip proximate the coil of wire, connecting to the coil of wire via aconnecting wire; and a continuous power supply proximate the coil ofwire.
 8. The apparatus of claim 7, wherein the electricity receivingunit comprises: a second coil of wire; a second chip proximate thesecond coil of wire, connecting to the second coil of wire via a secondconnecting wire; and the camera proximate the second chip, positioned toreceive a source of power from the second chip and the second coil ofwire.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: an optical datatransmission unit proximate the second half; an optical data receivingunit proximate the first half, where the optical data transmission unitand the optical data receiving unit are positioned to transmit datathere between.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: aspeaker proximate the second half.
 11. The apparatus of claim 1, whereinthe first half and second half transfer data via a near fieldcommunication protocol.
 12. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the firsthalf of the apparatus is positioned inside the building and the secondhalf of the apparatus is positioned outside the building.
 13. Anapparatus for security and/or automation systems, further comprising: afirst half of the apparatus, the first half of the apparatus comprisingan internal half of the apparatus configured to be located inside abuilding; an electricity transmission unit positioned within the firsthalf; a first light source included in the first half of the apparatus,wherein the first light source illuminates when the electricitytransmission unit is activated; a first rechargeable battery included inthe first half of the apparatus, wherein the first rechargeable batterycharges using a continuous power supply located inside the building; asecond half of the apparatus positioned on a divider configured toseparate the inside of the building from the outside of the building,the second half of the apparatus comprising an external half of theapparatus configured to be located outside the building; an electricityreceiving unit included in the external half of the apparatus andpositioned a predetermined distance away from the electricitytransmission unit; a second light source included in the second half ofthe apparatus, wherein the second light source illuminates when firsthalf of the apparatus is in communication with the second half of theapparatus; a camera included in the external half of the apparatus, thecamera powered by a portion of power received by the electricityreceiving unit; and a second rechargeable battery included in the secondhalf of the apparatus, wherein the second rechargeable battery stores aremaining portion of the power received by the electricity receivingunit; a processor; memory in electronic communication with theprocessor; and instructions stored in the memory, the instructions beingexecutable by the processor to: activate the camera based at least inpart on one or more commands.
 14. The apparatus of claim 13, wherein theinstructions are further executable to: stream image data to a controlpanel in response to the one or more commands.
 15. The apparatus ofclaim 13, wherein the instructions are further executable to: connect toa control panel associated with an automation system.
 16. The apparatusof claim 13, wherein the instructions are further executable to: rotatea viewing point of the camera.
 17. The apparatus of claim 13, whereinthe first half of the apparatus is positioned inside the building andthe second half of the apparatus is positioned outside the building.